BIC heads up first UK-wide pen recycling scheme

BIC has joined forces with TerraCycle to recycle its used writing instruments including pens, markers and highlighters, in what is thought to be a UK first.

The leading stationery supplier is sponsoring a collection 'brigade' programme with the upcycling firm to encourage schools and offices across the UK to collect the items which will then be recycled or reused.

The used pens can be recycled into various items including a watering can, pen pot, or a waste bin. For each pen collected, BIC will donate two points which can be redeemed for a two pence contribution to a school or charity of choice.

BIC UK's marketing manager, Yolande de Trogoff, said: "We're delighted to partner with TerraCycle in the UK on this scheme. Writing and drawing is such a crucial part of kids' creative development as well as educating them on sorting out waste, which makes partnering on a school and business initiative something really important to us."

TerraCycle UK's general manager, Chris Baker, added: "With the support of a familiar brand like BIC, we are able to practically teach both children and their parents the importance of resource conservation, recycling and upcycling using pens."